Au pair residence permit
For young people doing cultural exchange while living with a Norwegian host family (scheme now closed).
The Au pair residence permit (Norway) is closed to new applicants. This guide explains who it was for, what has replaced it, and how to find an open Norwegian route that fits you.
Who the Au pair residence permit is for
For young people doing cultural exchange while living with a Norwegian host family (scheme now closed).
No path to PR; au pair time does not count towards permanent residence.
Au pair residence permit - eligibility criteria
- Aged 18-30 at time of application
- A signed au pair contract with an approved host family
- Cultural exchange purpose, not employment
- No own children living in Norway
Au pair residence permit cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Au pair residence permit (Norway) is ~NOK 9,300, with an indicative processing time of ~2-4 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at UDI (Norway).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside or inside Norway |
| Length of stay | Up to 2 years total |
| Work rights | Light housework/childcare for the host family only |
| Study rights | Norwegian language and culture study expected |
| Government fee | ~NOK 9,300 |
| Processing time | ~2-4 months |
| Route to PR | No path to PR; au pair time does not count towards permanent residence. |
Pathway & next steps
No path to PR; au pair time does not count towards permanent residence.
Many applicants also compare Working Holiday · Working Holiday residence permit, Student · Study permit (residence permit for studies), Family (Spouse) · Family immigration with a spouse. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Norwegian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Au pair residence permit pitfalls we fix
Au pair residence permit - frequently asked questions
Is the Au pair residence permit still open?
No - the Au pair residence permit (Norway) is closed to new applicants. No path to PR; au pair time does not count towards permanent residence.
Who can apply for the Au pair residence permit?
For young people doing cultural exchange while living with a Norwegian host family (scheme now closed).
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Norway government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- UDI (Norway) - official Norway immigration authority